European Union: Negotiation best chance to reach solution in Afghanistan

Following the crisis in Afghanistan, the European Union Ministers of Foreign affairs has met to discuss the issue and find ways that the crisis can be solved. 

The EU resolved that the negotiation process between the Afghan government and Taliban offers the best chance to reach a solution that would guarantee security and peaceful coexistence in Afghanistan, and called on all parties in the country to respect all commitment in bringing an end to the crisis. 

While calling on the protection of all human rights, most especially those of the women and girls, as part of the process, the EU stressed the utmost importance of the safety and security of all EU citizens in Afghanistan, as well as those working for EU.

It said, "Through strong coordination among member states, every possible effort is being made to ensure their security, including through the ongoing evacuation of staff and their families in need. The European Union will also pay special attention to those Afghans whose security might now be in jeopardy due to their principled engagement for our common values.'

The EU expressed concerns about reports of serious human rights violations and abused in Afghanistan, calling for an immediate cessation of all violence, the restoration of security and civil order, and protection and respect of civilian life, dignity and property throughout the country. 

It noted that a comprehensive and inclusive political settlement and an enduring solution to the conflict should not be established by force, but through meaningful negotiations based on democracy, the rule of law and constitutional rule.

The EU stated that it would continue to support the Afghan people, adding that engagement with its partners in Central Asia will be increasingly important, so as to prevent the use of Afghan territory by international terrorist group 

It added that it would continue to provide needs based assistance to the African people, and called on all other countries to allow safe and unhindered access for humanitarian assistance to Afghan people in need. 

Also, The EU calls on the Taliban to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law in all circumstances, stating that it will  support Afghanistan’s neighbours in coping with negative spill overs, which are to be expected from an increasing flow of refugees and migrants.